I've got a Sporty that's a 2005, been 100% reliable and still is but recently has needed a little more TLC than before. Normal wear stuff plus the adding of pipes, rejeting the carb. etc. So I've decided to buy one of those Fix Your Hog DVDs and after watching I think I can start wrenching on my own bike.

I have a cheap set of sockets that frankly, make me nervous. I don't even know what brand much less if they are any good or not. I think they're one of those auto-shop specials or whatever.

Anyhow so I'm looking at a good starter set of sockets and wrenches. I know Craftsman used to be good and certainly Snap-on and Mac are the top of the pile, but all tend to be expensive.

I've also heard that Harbor Freight might be pretty good for the money. I haven't heard anything on Northern Tool and I know of Husky just by seeing them around.

Anyone have any recommendations? Remember, not really looking to drop a ton of money here as my skill is very limited and I don't do this for a living.

Snap-on, Mac or the budget friendly Craftsman. They make some Craftsman tools right here in Colorado Springs. I used to use Easco tools back in the early 90s and the AF and loved them. Snap-on wrenches used to be kind of thin and hurt my hands back then, not sure how they are today. I use mostly Craftsman, I have had them for almost 20 years and do a lot of my own work.

Personally, I like anything made in USA. My latest 6pt. sockets come from NAPA and I'm happy with their quality [Made in USA]. Speaking of sockets, I would consider 6pt over 12 pt - especially anything that requires high torque values.

craftsman - good quality, fair price. check the sears website for sales and they will honor the price in the store. I just saved $30 on a bike lift.
also - a torque wrench is a must have - You will want to be able to properly torque to factory specs.
And loctite, vibration can make things loose.
Have fun! Working on your own stuff can be very rewarding!

My tools are all mixed up. Some are Craftsman, a couple from Snap-on, some I have no clue. I started with just some basic hand tools I got from my dad when he was still alive, but after I bought this bike I started adding tools as I needed them ... like torx and hex sets, torque wrench, jack stand, oil filter tool, and the list goes on. When I need a tool I look online at what the stores are carrying then go check 'em out in person. I thought I could tell crap when I seen it. Not long ago I bought a 1/2" drive 9/16" socket from O'Riley Auto Parts and the first time I used it (on the frame of my 50cc stand-up scooter) it actually broke in half! Got my money back and went to Sears for a good one. I guess the lesson there is you can't always tell by looking.

I use tools to make my living. I use Craftsman tools day in and day out. If something does break it's free to replace and there is always a sears around. I used to use my snap on and mac stuff at work but I keep my tools in the truck so craftsman is a better choice for that. I still have a ton of higher priced stuff in the garage but craftsman makes a good tool too. Watch when buying craftsman though, last time I was in there there were a couple of different wrench sets that were made in china. The good stuff says "made in U.S.A." on it. If you don't mind chinese tools then no worry.

I also support Craftsman stuff especially after my latest issue. I had 5 grade 8 bolts snap off inside my rear wheel and used an extractor set from Lowes to try and get them out. Broke two extractors and said F-this. Went to Sears and bought their Craftsman set...the drill would seize up but those bits didn't even flinch.

Now for some basic stuff I'll still use Harbor Frieght as they have some decent stuff. If I'm going to get a specialty tool I may not use all that often I'll get the Harbor Frieght stuff. If I find I use it a lot and the HF tool isn't holding up, then I'll drop the money for something nicers at my local Sears store.

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1999 XL883, 1200 conversion...rebuilding time now.
2011 Dyna Wide Glide...stock...for a while.
aka Dirty Troy of Satan's Barbers MC
"why pay someone to screw something up when you can do it yourself for free?"